Man stabbed, run over...murder suspect in police custody

A 21-year old male is in police custody after an unidentified male was stabbed and run over last night (Tuesday). His injuries led to his death, according to police officials.

Just after 9 p.m. Sunnyside police raced to assist the Yakima County Sheriff's Office with an apparent assault in the 3000 block of Sunnyside-Mabton Highway.

The victim was found suffering significant head trauma. Officers investigating the incident determined the unidentified victim had been a passenger inside a vehicle. He had been stabbed, somehow exited the vehicle and was then run over.

The victim was transported to Sunnyside Community Hospital and pronounced dead by emergency staff there.

A blue 1995 Ford Contour was later located in the 2400 block of Tear Road west of Grandview. That vehicle is believed to be the suspect vehicle based on evidence found by authorities.

Grandview police were also notified of the incident and their assistance was requested. Officers found a 21-year-old male, believed to be the suspect in the murder while he was walking on foot in the direction of Grandview.

Officers took the man into custody and he was transported to the Sunnyside Police Department. He is currently being held while investigation continues.

The Sunnyside Police Department, as of press time today, was not releasing the name of the suspect.

Sunnyside Police Department Public Information Officer Charlotte Hinderlider said the victim's identity is unknown pending an autopsy scheduled for today.

The incident is not believed to be gang-related. Anyone with information on the case is urged to call Sunnyside detectives at 836-6200.